Massachusetts drug crimes defense
lawyer challenging searches, seizures, and lab evidence
From simple possession to trafficking
Whether your case involves a Route 9 traffic stop in Framingham, a dorm search in Cambridge, or a task-force sting in Lowell, Castel & Hall LLP defends charges involving cocaine, heroin/fentanyl, pills, and marijuana distribution. We analyze stop justifications, warrant scope, canine sniffs, and lab protocols while planning plea alternatives where smart. Our statewide
criminal defense practice means we know local courts—and how to leverage diversion, treatment, or CWOF outcomes when appropriate.
Possession, intent to distribute, and trafficking
Severity turns on drug class and weight, but details matter: constructive possession vs. actual possession, packaging, cash, and texts used to infer intent. We demand full discovery and push for breakdowns when evidence is thin. If immigration status is at risk, we coordinate with
deportation defense to craft pleas that avoid removability.
Drug Crimes Defense – FAQ
Are Massachusetts penalties still harsh after marijuana legalization?
Personal possession of small amounts of cannabis is legal for adults, but distribution outside the regulatory system, sales to minors, and driving under the influence remain crimes. Other controlled substances (e.g., cocaine, heroin/fentanyl, pills) carry significant penalties.
Can I avoid jail on a first-time possession charge?
Often, yes. Diversion, treatment-based resolutions, or a CWOF may be available. The best option depends on your history, substance, and the quality of the stop/search.
How do I challenge an illegal search of my car or home?
Fourth Amendment motions target traffic-stop justification, prolongation, warrant defects, and consent validity. Dash/body-cam, CAD logs, and K-9 deployment details frequently decide suppression outcomes.
Do prosecutors have to prove the substance was real?
Yes. Certified lab analysis is typically required. Chain-of-custody issues, lab backlogs, and methodology can all be challenged.
What about the Massachusetts drug-lab scandals—do they help me?
Past lab misconduct has led to case dismissals and record relief in certain circumstances. If your case or old conviction intersects with the affected timeframes or chemists, special remedies may exist.
Can text messages and cash be enough for “intent to distribute”?
Sometimes, but context matters. Personal-use quantities, addiction evidence, or alternative explanations can defeat an “intent” theory even where cash and packaging are present.
What is a school-zone enhancement?
Massachusetts has enhanced penalties for certain drug offenses near schools/parks under defined conditions. Whether it applies depends on distance, time of day, and charge type; mapping and timing evidence are critical.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a drug conviction?
Massachusetts eliminated the old automatic license suspension for many drug convictions, but certain cases and RMV actions can still affect driving privileges. Confirm current rules before resolving your case.
Can a non-citizen resolve a drug case safely?
Drug convictions can trigger serious immigration consequences. Strategies include negotiating to non-controlled-substance dispositions or alternative statutes when possible—always coordinate defense with immigration-savvy counsel.
Is drug court a good idea?
For some, yes. It’s intensive but can produce better outcomes than traditional prosecution—especially where recovery support is needed. Weigh eligibility, requirements, and your personal circumstances with counsel.
Illegal stops, bad searches, and unreliable labs
Many drug prosecutions fall apart after a successful motion to suppress. We challenge pretextual stops, vague consent, and defective warrants; cross-examine officers on body-cam footage; and scrutinize chain of custody and lab certifications. After a favorable resolution, we explore
sealing criminal records when the law allows to protect your future.